If your commitment to shape up in the New Year is usually lost long before any weight, then make 2015 the year that you stick to your resolution by finding a fitness regime that suits you and your lifestyle.
Here is a list of this year’s trends on the fitness front:
• Time is money so finding an effective fitness programme that doesn’t cost much of either is bound to be popular. Body weight training takes exercise back to basics, requiring little or no equipment as you use your own body as a form of resistance. It is cheap, versatile and you can practically work out anywhere, at any time. Whether it’s push-ups, press-ups, squats, lunges, pull-ups or abdominal roll-ups, there is an exercise to strengthen and tone each part of your body
• If hiring a personal trainer is beyond your budget, consider booking yourself in for a group personal training session. Small group training can be much more affordable and just as successful. By using a personal trainer you will not only benefit from their knowledge of fitness but also their expertise in diet, lifestyle and wellbeing, hopefully helping you to stay in shape for years to come
• High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) alternates intense bursts of activity with short periods of rest and recovery. The fitness sessions can usually be completed in less than 30 minutes, so if you are pushed for time this could be the perfect solution
• For an effective all-over body workout, try rowing. When used correctly, a rowing machine will work as many as 85 per cent of your muscles, delivering a high intensity workout without punishing the body. This low impact exercise can be tried by anyone, whatever their fitness level
• Tired of the gym? Then wake up to the growing trend for outdoor fitness. From mud runs to obstacle courses and wall climbing to water wading, these personal trainer-led programmes will get you out and active
• The popularity of yoga shows no signs of abating and in the year ahead more men are expected to give it a try. Based on ancient tradition, yoga utilises a series of bodily postures to benefit health and improve relaxation. Research suggests it increases longevity, boosts the immune system and improves mental health. There are many different types to choose from such as power yoga, yogalates, Bikram, Ashtanga, Vinyasa, Kripalu, Anurara, Kundalini, Sivananda and others. So if you haven’t given it a try, now could be the time to sign up
• There’s no place like home, and when it comes to getting in shape, your lounge could be the ideal setting. Free to use and with refreshments on tap, staying at home to workout with a DVD or online programme will save time and money
• While weight training was traditionally a man’s domain, more women are using weights to tone up and strengthen. Crossfit is a strength and conditioning programme that pushes its users to the limits, using functional strength and high intensity exercises that incorporate equipment such as dumb bells, kettle bells and medicine balls.
